Things To Do
in Colombia
Colombia is a country of striking contrasts and vibrant cultures. From snow-capped Andes to tropical Caribbean coasts, it offers dramatic landscapes and biodiversity. Its cities pulse with music, art, and culinary innovation, while coffee regions invite slow, scenic exploration.
With warm hospitality and a history of resilience, Colombia rewards curious travelers with memorable experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bogotá and settle into your hotel. Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring arepas and fresh fruit. Spend some time acclimatizing to the elevation while taking in the vibrant streets of La Candelaria.
Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) to marvel at the stunning collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Afterward, take a cable car ride up to Monserrate for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking the capital’s sprawling landscape.
Dine in the vibrant Zona Rosa, where you can indulge in local specialties. After dinner, immerse yourself in Bogotá's nightlife by visiting a local bar or enjoying live salsa music. Take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets to wrap up your day.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, located just outside the city. Enjoy the breathtaking underground architecture and learn about its intriguing history. Return to Bogotá in time for a delightful lunch at a local eatery.
Spend your afternoon exploring the impressive Botero Museum, featuring works by Fernando Botero and other renowned artists. Afterwards, wander through the colorful streets and artisanal shops of La Candelaria for unique souvenirs. Grab a coffee at one of the historical cafés and soak in the local culture.
Join a guided street food tour to sample Bogotá's best street snacks, such as empanadas and arepas. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers alike. Conclude your evening with a scenic view of the city from a local viewpoint.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚍Local/transit ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Hostels or mid-range hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich diversity of landscapes and cultures
- Warm, welcoming people and flavorful cuisine
- Excellent coffee and growing culinary scene
- Extensive flight connections and wildlife destinations
- Traffic congestion in major cities
- Safety can vary by neighborhood; plan ahead
- Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains
- Varying internet and service speeds in rural areas
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
Places to Visit in Colombia
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful facades, narrow alleys, and sunset light along the ramparts offer timeless urban portraits.
Mountain viewpoint with sweeping city and Andean scenery; best at sunrise or sunset.
Endless wax palms marching across the valley—dramatic landscapes perfect for wide-angle shots.
Underground cathedral carved from salt in a surreal, sculptural setting.
The river of five colors (seasonal) with vibrant aquatic hues and dramatic canyons.
Food in Colombia
Colombia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, chicharrón, ground meat, plantain, avocado, egg, and sausage; best found in Medellín and the Antioquia region.
Must-Try!
A versatile cornmeal cake that accompanies meals or stands alone, found everywhere from street stalls to sit-down eateries.
A comforting chicken and potato soup with capers and guasca leaves, iconic in Bogotá and surrounding highlands.
A rustic hearty stew with meat, root vegetables, and corn on the cob; a staple across Colombia.
Roast pork stuffed with green onion and yellow peas, a festive dish from the Tolima region.
A rich seafood stew common along the Caribbean coast, often enjoyed with coconut rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, flowers, and street food stalls offering arepas, empanadas, and tropical fruits.
A chaotic color-splashed market where you can sample coastal seafood, fruits, and traditional sweets (go with a local guide).
Try arepa de chocolo, empanadas, patacones, and freshly squeezed lulo juice from roadside stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or cheek kiss is common in informal settings; address people with Mr./Ms. and their first name when invited.
In social settings, punctuality is flexible; business meetings may start on time but with some leeway.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred sites; ask permission before photographing individuals.
Colombians value politeness and personal space; use courteous language and avoid loud disputes in public.
Safety
Tipping in Colombia
Ensure a smooth experience
In many restaurants a service charge of 10% is included; if not, 5-10% is customary for good service. Small tips for hotel staff, taxi drivers, and guides are appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities; carry some cash (COP) for rural areas and markets. Mobile payments are increasing but not universal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Caribbean coasts are dry and sunny; Andean cities stay cool; plan beach days and city strolls with lighter rain gear.
Frequent but brief showers; good for lush landscapes and fewer crowds but carry a waterproof layer.
Pleasant temperatures in the highlands; excellent for hiking and coffee tours; occasional rain is still possible in mountains.
Colombia at Night
Hiking in Colombia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic hike among wax palms and cloud forests near the coffee region.
Four- to six-day jungle trek to an ancient city deep in the Sierra Nevada.
High-altitude hikes with chances of glacial scenery and challenging ascents.
Active volcano, lava flows at times, and diverse thermal landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Colombia by plane.
Main international gateway; connects to major cities in Colombia and abroad; large duty-free shops and transit options.
Major hub for travelers to the coffee region; convenient access to Pereira and Manizales via road.
Gateway to the Caribbean coast; easy access to the historic center and beaches.
Strategic airport for the southwest, with connections to Andean and Pacific routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo and mixed heritage with a strong urban culture across major cities.
Significant communities along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts with distinct music and cuisine.
Various groups such as Wayuu, Embera, and Nasa with rich traditions and handicrafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and national tournaments draw huge crowds.
Colombia has a storied cycling culture with tours like the Vuelta a Colombia and a strong grassroots scene.
Strong regional interest, especially in certain coastal and Andean communities.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cities; ask for bean dishes, rice bowls, and fresh salads; many restaurants can adapt meat dishes to veggie versions.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colombia.